State Journal

Learning mathematics may never be the same in Oklahoma—at
least if an experimental online math curriculum about to be tested at
nine schools is judged a success.

Later this month, teachers at nine Oklahoma schools will begin
helping the developers in preparing the curriculum and then
pilot-testing it with their students in grades 4 and 7. The curriculum,
to include algebra, will be presented to students on computer screens
using a blend of text, graphics, and "streaming" video.

Those materials, along with tools to assess students' progress and
keep administrative records, will be delivered from central computers
over Oklahoma's statewide computer network, called OneNet. The Virtual Internet School in
Oklahoma Network, as the project is called, is Oklahoma's bid to join
other states—including Florida, Kentucky, and Illinois—
that are providing online courses to schools.

If the test goes well and the legislature provides enough money, the
program will be made available to schools, libraries, and homes
throughout the state, beginning in July. "This far-reaching, ambitious
program lays the groundwork in Oklahoma for what is commonly referred
to as a connected learning community," Sandy Garrett, the state schools
superintendent, said in a statement. "Master teachers" from the nine
districts involved—Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Claremore, Durant,
Frontier, Lawton, Muskogee, Stilwell, and Western Heights—will
help develop the online math curricula as their schools are testing it,
according to Ms. Garrett. Other subjects will be added later.

At first, the online materials will be used as supplements to
regular classes. But when the curriculum is fully developed, the
project could be used to deliver entire courses online.

So far, $400,000 has been spent on the project, but state education
officials plan to ask for $5 million more for it this year.